How To: Poke Bowls

In Hawaiian, "poke" means to cut crosswise into pieces, but for Hawaiians, it signifies so much more. Poke means family gatherings on the beach, casting nets into the ocean, and digging roasted kukui nuts from old fire pits. To make the poke, fresh fish is cleaned and sliced and everyone eagerly awaits while the mixture sits and the flavors meld.

Over the years, poke has evolved from a simple fisherman’s dish to become a staple food in Hawaii. Much like the Hawaiian people, poke has welcomed change and has grown to incorporate changing Hawaiian culture. Today you can find poke influenced by Japanese flavors, Mediterranean spices, and even vegan tofu mixes!

Hawaii’s well-known aloha spirit is more than just a desire to live life with love; it’s incorporated into all aspects of Hawaiian life. People surf with aloha, write with aloha, and they certainly cook with aloha. If you don’t find yourself living on a seaside paradise but still want to try your hand at cooking with aloha, make your very own poke bowl at home!

You can get as creative as you like with garnish but we suggest sliced avocado, black sesame seeds, crushed toasted macadamia nuts, and a sprinkle of Hawaiian red sea salt. Serve over white rice, or, for a healthier option, over a bowl of quinoa or wild rice.

This easy, tasty salmon poke bowl recipe is packed with pickled veggies and avocado and topped with a spicy ponzu sauce. It's a bright, healthy bowl for spring or summer inspired by the classic Hawaiian dish.

On a budget? Maybe you just hate raw fish. Either way, in this poke bowl twist, canned tuna replaces the traditional raw fish to create a simple yet delicious tuna and rice bowl that might just be the answer to all your problems.

Salmon poke bowl filled with fresh slices of mango and avocado on a bed of coconut rice.

Poke is the culinary manifestation of aloha--it’s life, love, home...and it’s delicious.